As a new year approaches here in the sweltering Brisbane heat, I sat and contemplated all things life, including the new found challenges brought about by a growing child. At the same time I enjoyed some surfing and found a post on Heart of the Matter Online about choosing 'A Verse for the Year' by Marybeth Whalen.
Marybeth writes that, "Every year I claim a verse for the year. This verse is usually something that has been a recurring theme in my life, or a verse that keeps popping up inexplicably. After prayer and consideration, I determine that this verse is mine for the year and claim it as my theme or promise for the next 365 days. I try to post it somewhere prominent, write it in my journal and meditate on it often. This verse is between me and God. It is His word for me, personally, based on what I am facing or dealing with in my life."
I find that this is a great idea, and a good way to explore a verse and apply it to one's life over an extended period of time. So, without further ado, my verse for the year is...
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
I have chosen this verse as I came across it after reading Marybeth's post today. It's been a verse that has cropped up on numerous occasions over the last month or so. Lately I haven't had a great time of life with, as mentioned above, the ups and downs of being the mother of a growing child, as well as issues at work. This verse reminds me that God is with me working His good in my life, and it is for His purpose. I will delve into this verse more as the year progresses and share what discoveries I find.
So, as the new year approaches, I will take this opportunity to wish all my friends here in blog land a happy, prosperous and safe new year.
Happy New Year Paula!!
ReplyDeleteWonderful verse you chose...sometimes it is hard to see the "purpose" to the struggles of life but to hear God's promise gives us the hope to "press on".
many blessings in 2009,
Kim
Happy New Year! Be safe this evening and in 2009 we get to see our wishes come true!!
ReplyDelete"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." - Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
ReplyDeleteThis is one of my favorites. Thank you for this message. It's encouraging. I pray a wonderful CHRIST filled New Year for you and yours.
This verse came into my life about eight years ago when it was the theme of our singles group at church. The group was called "Single Purpose". I made the logo so that the top of the P was part of the bottom of the S and where the two joined it was the fish sign. HOpe you can visualize. Try drawing it out.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, this verse along with Jer. 29:11 and Prov. 3:5-6 have been strength for me the last 18 months. Rom 8:28 gives me hope that somehow someway God will make good out of my deep heartache.
Glad you'll be clinging to it this year.
Love you,
Paula
Happy New Year, Paula! A beautiful verse to start the year with. He is so good! I just know He has special plans for you in 2009!
ReplyDeleteSending hugs,
Laura